The Port of Long Beach posted a record July for cargo volumes last month, according to new numbers released this week.
Long Beach handled 784,845 TEUs last month, 4.2% more than July 2020, the port’s previous record holder for its best July, with 753,081 TEUs.
The port also moved 382,940 TEUs in imports, 1.6% more than July 2020. Meanwhile, the port handled 109,951 TEUs in exports, 20.7% less than the same time last year.
Empty containers last month jumped 22.8%, to 291,955 TEUs, according to port data.
In 12 of the past 13 months, the port has surpassed record cargo volumes, data show. So far in 2021, the port has handled more than 5.5 million TEUs, a 32.3% jump from the same time last year. Officials are attributing the record numbers to ongoing consumer demand.
“Ships arrived last month to move these empty containers out of the harbor and clear valuable terminal space as we handle historic amounts of trade,” said port Executive Director Mario Cordero. “These boxes are a valuable commodity in the overstressed global supply chain. Our loaded exports are likely to rebound this month.”
Friday, August 6, 2021
Port of Grays Harbor Announces Restructuring, Promotions
The Port of Grays Harbor recently announced it has gone through an organization restructuring and promoted several employees.
Randy Lewis is becoming the director of health, safety and environment for the port to reflect the port’s “consideration of environmental, economic and social impacts” for projects, according to the port.
Also: Public Affairs Manager Kayla Dunlap has been promoted to director of government and public affairs and Information Technology Manager Chris Hunt to director of information technology. Alissa Shay has been named general manager of the Satsop Business Park, and Molly Bold to general manager of the Westport Marina in an effort to enhance and upgrade the marina floats and how they are configured.
The port has also said that it’s also seeking a port engineer, contract administrator, and a marine terminal security superintendent.
“The business and functions of the port have grown and continue to change as we adapt to today’s business and regulatory environment,” said port Executive Director Gary Nelson. “I am incredibly proud of our team here at the Port of Grays Harbor and confident these organizational changes and promotions will suit us well in serving our community and ensuring future growth.”
Randy Lewis is becoming the director of health, safety and environment for the port to reflect the port’s “consideration of environmental, economic and social impacts” for projects, according to the port.
Also: Public Affairs Manager Kayla Dunlap has been promoted to director of government and public affairs and Information Technology Manager Chris Hunt to director of information technology. Alissa Shay has been named general manager of the Satsop Business Park, and Molly Bold to general manager of the Westport Marina in an effort to enhance and upgrade the marina floats and how they are configured.
The port has also said that it’s also seeking a port engineer, contract administrator, and a marine terminal security superintendent.
“The business and functions of the port have grown and continue to change as we adapt to today’s business and regulatory environment,” said port Executive Director Gary Nelson. “I am incredibly proud of our team here at the Port of Grays Harbor and confident these organizational changes and promotions will suit us well in serving our community and ensuring future growth.”
Matson Launches New Vessel Service in Oakland
The Port of Oakland recently welcomed Honolulu-based Matson Inc.’s new vessel route, the CCX Service.
The new service, which started July 27 and will leave China every 3 to 5 weeks, is big for the Northern California seaport because it’s the first time Matson is offering the China-to-Oakland route, which will include stops at Ningbo and Shanghai in China and Long Beach and Honolulu. It’s also the third time this year that Oakland is being introduced as a first-call service.
“The new CCX service reflects exploding U.S. demand for imports from China,” the port said in a statement. “First-call status indicates that importers are targeting Oakland.”
Oakland is already on track to move 2.6 million containers this year, port data show.
“Matson is a big part of the port’s business and we’re gratified that they want to expand our relationship by opening a Northern California gateway to China,” said port Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “The fact that it’s a first call underscores the importance cargo owners place on Oakland.”
The new service, which started July 27 and will leave China every 3 to 5 weeks, is big for the Northern California seaport because it’s the first time Matson is offering the China-to-Oakland route, which will include stops at Ningbo and Shanghai in China and Long Beach and Honolulu. It’s also the third time this year that Oakland is being introduced as a first-call service.
“The new CCX service reflects exploding U.S. demand for imports from China,” the port said in a statement. “First-call status indicates that importers are targeting Oakland.”
Oakland is already on track to move 2.6 million containers this year, port data show.
“Matson is a big part of the port’s business and we’re gratified that they want to expand our relationship by opening a Northern California gateway to China,” said port Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “The fact that it’s a first call underscores the importance cargo owners place on Oakland.”
Lynden, LTI, AML Lend Hand to City of Anacortes
When the city of Anacortes was not going to have enough chlorine for treating its regional water system, employees from Lynden Logistics, LTI, Inc. and Alaska Marine Lines recently teamed up to bring it to the city, Lynden revealed Aug. 3.
Lynden Logistics, which has corporate offices in Anchorage and Seattle, traveled from Houston with 21 totes of chlorine, while transport and logistics company LTI brought two loads from California, thanks to Alaska Marine Lines' fiberglass-lined ISO tanks.
“It's a great feeling to know that our assistance averted what could have been a very serious situation for the community drinking water supply,” said Lynden Logistics Logistics Manager Becky MacDonald. “It was a great team effort by all three companies with assistance from Lynden Safety Director Jim Maltby on the bulk loads, Al Hartgraves, Anthony Knapp and the LTI, Inc. crew providing the drivers and quick response, and Alaska Marine Lines providing the tanks.”
Anacortes Mayor Laurie Gere said the city is extremely thankful to Lynden for helping Marathon Refineries with the shortage of sodium hypochlorite.
“This is an amazing community, and the protection of the safe drinking water for our region was a priority for all,” she said. “The city has much appreciation and gratitude for the rapid and generous response.”
Lynden Logistics, which has corporate offices in Anchorage and Seattle, traveled from Houston with 21 totes of chlorine, while transport and logistics company LTI brought two loads from California, thanks to Alaska Marine Lines' fiberglass-lined ISO tanks.
“It's a great feeling to know that our assistance averted what could have been a very serious situation for the community drinking water supply,” said Lynden Logistics Logistics Manager Becky MacDonald. “It was a great team effort by all three companies with assistance from Lynden Safety Director Jim Maltby on the bulk loads, Al Hartgraves, Anthony Knapp and the LTI, Inc. crew providing the drivers and quick response, and Alaska Marine Lines providing the tanks.”
Anacortes Mayor Laurie Gere said the city is extremely thankful to Lynden for helping Marathon Refineries with the shortage of sodium hypochlorite.
“This is an amazing community, and the protection of the safe drinking water for our region was a priority for all,” she said. “The city has much appreciation and gratitude for the rapid and generous response.”
Tuesday, August 3, 2021
From the Editor: Maritime Piracy
By Mark Nero, Managing Editor
Although it mostly takes place on the other side of the world, maritime piracy can have far-reaching effects for the goods movement industry.
When parts of the supply chain are attacked in regions of the world like Asia and Africa, it can lead to disruptions in the Pacific region in the form of vessel delays, ship reroutings and cargo adjustments.
But the International Maritime Bureau, which is run by the International Chamber of Commerce, revealed some good news recently: during the first six months of 2021, the Bureau recorded the lowest number of reported piracy incidents for the first half of any year since 1994.
Although reported piracy and armed robbery incidents were at their lowest level in 27 years, risks remain to seafarers and the IMB is cautioning against complacency, since vessels were boarded in 91% of the reported incidents.
Despite the overall decline in reported incidents, violence against crews has continued according to IMB data, with 50 crew kidnapped, three each threatened and taken hostage, two assaulted, one injured and one killed during the first half of this year.
The Gulf of Guinea continues to be particularly dangerous for seafarers with 32% of all reported incidents taking place in the region, according to IMB. The region accounted for all 50 kidnapped crew and the single crew fatality recorded by IMB during the first half of 2021.
And although it’s rare compared to other regions of the world, piracy can happen relatively close to U.S. waters. For example, there’s been a spate of attacks on oil platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, including a July 19 incident where eight gunmen boarded a platform and ransacked it while holding the crew hostage.
The Mexican government has registered 88 pirate attacks on oil infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico since 2015, including 20 last year. However, the International Transport Workers Federation claims the number is much higher, with its records showing 180 attacks in 2019 alone.
Whatever the number is, there’s no denying that pirate attacks abroad and in North America are a danger to the goods transport industry that needs to be accounted for.
Although the risk of acts of piracy against Neopanamax or ultra-large containerships is not high, the risk against bulk carriers and other smaller goods transport vessels definitely is.
Security experts say that when operating in waters with heightened risk, vessel hardening is a vital part of the ships security defense. A guide to vessel hardening, produced by a collection of oil companies that have been occasional or frequent targets of maritime pirates, can be downloaded for free at https://www.american-club.com/files/files/OCIMF_guidelines_to_harden_vessels.pdf
In addition, the IMB has stated that by reporting all incidents to the Maritime Bureau and regional authorities, seafarers can maintain pressure against pirates, strengthen knowledge-sharing channels and reduce risk to seafarers.
“Reporting piracy and armed robbery incidents is the first line of defense against future attacks,” ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said. “Sustained reporting to IMB will enable governments, maritime response agencies and other stakeholders to establish safer waters for our seafarers and smooth flow of goods throughout global supply chains.”
Managing Editor Mark Nero can be reached at: mark@maritimepublishing.com
When parts of the supply chain are attacked in regions of the world like Asia and Africa, it can lead to disruptions in the Pacific region in the form of vessel delays, ship reroutings and cargo adjustments.
But the International Maritime Bureau, which is run by the International Chamber of Commerce, revealed some good news recently: during the first six months of 2021, the Bureau recorded the lowest number of reported piracy incidents for the first half of any year since 1994.
Although reported piracy and armed robbery incidents were at their lowest level in 27 years, risks remain to seafarers and the IMB is cautioning against complacency, since vessels were boarded in 91% of the reported incidents.
Despite the overall decline in reported incidents, violence against crews has continued according to IMB data, with 50 crew kidnapped, three each threatened and taken hostage, two assaulted, one injured and one killed during the first half of this year.
The Gulf of Guinea continues to be particularly dangerous for seafarers with 32% of all reported incidents taking place in the region, according to IMB. The region accounted for all 50 kidnapped crew and the single crew fatality recorded by IMB during the first half of 2021.
And although it’s rare compared to other regions of the world, piracy can happen relatively close to U.S. waters. For example, there’s been a spate of attacks on oil platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, including a July 19 incident where eight gunmen boarded a platform and ransacked it while holding the crew hostage.
The Mexican government has registered 88 pirate attacks on oil infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico since 2015, including 20 last year. However, the International Transport Workers Federation claims the number is much higher, with its records showing 180 attacks in 2019 alone.
Whatever the number is, there’s no denying that pirate attacks abroad and in North America are a danger to the goods transport industry that needs to be accounted for.
Although the risk of acts of piracy against Neopanamax or ultra-large containerships is not high, the risk against bulk carriers and other smaller goods transport vessels definitely is.
Security experts say that when operating in waters with heightened risk, vessel hardening is a vital part of the ships security defense. A guide to vessel hardening, produced by a collection of oil companies that have been occasional or frequent targets of maritime pirates, can be downloaded for free at https://www.american-club.com/files/files/OCIMF_guidelines_to_harden_vessels.pdf
In addition, the IMB has stated that by reporting all incidents to the Maritime Bureau and regional authorities, seafarers can maintain pressure against pirates, strengthen knowledge-sharing channels and reduce risk to seafarers.
“Reporting piracy and armed robbery incidents is the first line of defense against future attacks,” ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said. “Sustained reporting to IMB will enable governments, maritime response agencies and other stakeholders to establish safer waters for our seafarers and smooth flow of goods throughout global supply chains.”
Managing Editor Mark Nero can be reached at: mark@maritimepublishing.com
New National Ocean Service Director Announced
NOAA veteran Nicole LeBoeuf has been tapped to lead the National Ocean Service as director and will also serve as assistant administrator for Ocean Services and Coastal Zone Management, the agency announced in July.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo appointed LeBoeuf to the role; she had already been serving as acting director since August 2018, and prior to that was named deputy director in December 2016.
“Nicole is well positioned to lead NOAA’s National Ocean Service and to continue its rich history of addressing evolving economic, environmental, and social pressures on our ocean, coasts, and coastal communities,” Raimondo said in a statement.
Before her work in the National Ocean Service, LeBoeuf was chief of Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Conservation Division of NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources, then became its acting deputy director.
Under her tenure, LeBoeuf has led the National Ocean Service in partnership with community, cultural and national conversation leaders on various initiatives, including an effort to designate the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary. She also supervised the start of NOAA’s first national rip current forecast model and the formation of a data-sharing agreement with an offshore wind firm, according to NOAA.
“With Nicole at the helm, the Ocean Service established itself at the forefront of technology for disaster preparedness, response and recovery, mapping and charting, hypoxia and harmful algal bloom forecasting, and safeguarding communities from risks such as sea level rise and coastal inundation,” said NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo appointed LeBoeuf to the role; she had already been serving as acting director since August 2018, and prior to that was named deputy director in December 2016.
“Nicole is well positioned to lead NOAA’s National Ocean Service and to continue its rich history of addressing evolving economic, environmental, and social pressures on our ocean, coasts, and coastal communities,” Raimondo said in a statement.
Before her work in the National Ocean Service, LeBoeuf was chief of Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Conservation Division of NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources, then became its acting deputy director.
Under her tenure, LeBoeuf has led the National Ocean Service in partnership with community, cultural and national conversation leaders on various initiatives, including an effort to designate the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary. She also supervised the start of NOAA’s first national rip current forecast model and the formation of a data-sharing agreement with an offshore wind firm, according to NOAA.
“With Nicole at the helm, the Ocean Service established itself at the forefront of technology for disaster preparedness, response and recovery, mapping and charting, hypoxia and harmful algal bloom forecasting, and safeguarding communities from risks such as sea level rise and coastal inundation,” said NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad.
BAE Systems Nets $90.2M U.S. Navy Contract
The U.S. Navy recently awarded BAE Systems a $90.2 million contract to maintain and upgrade the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego.
The work on the 684-foot-long vessel - which is set to start in September at BAE System’s shipyard in San Diego - encompasses the underwater hull, ballast tanks system, amphibious well deck area and upgrades to the living areas for up to 800 mariners and marines. The work is expected to take more than a year to finish.
“The upcoming USS San Diego project is a major event in the service life of the ship, expanding its capability to execute a wide range of naval missions for many years to come,” explained David M. Thomas Jr., vice president and general manager of BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair. “Our team of employees, subcontractors and Navy personnel look forward to ushering USS San Diego into its next phase of fleet readiness. We also recognize the unique and special opportunity to work aboard a ship named for our hometown.”
The work on the 684-foot-long vessel - which is set to start in September at BAE System’s shipyard in San Diego - encompasses the underwater hull, ballast tanks system, amphibious well deck area and upgrades to the living areas for up to 800 mariners and marines. The work is expected to take more than a year to finish.
“The upcoming USS San Diego project is a major event in the service life of the ship, expanding its capability to execute a wide range of naval missions for many years to come,” explained David M. Thomas Jr., vice president and general manager of BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair. “Our team of employees, subcontractors and Navy personnel look forward to ushering USS San Diego into its next phase of fleet readiness. We also recognize the unique and special opportunity to work aboard a ship named for our hometown.”
Port of Los Angeles Extends Public Comment on SCIG Project
The public will now have more time to weigh in on the Southern California International Gateway Project (SCIG) in the Port of Los Angeles.
The port has moved the deadline to Aug. 25 for those interested in submitting comment on the Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report for a planned BNSF intermodal rail yard facility.
BNSF wants to build a multi-million dollar rail yard facility four miles away from the ports of L.A. and Long Beach, which would divert cargo that would normally travel by truck over 20 miles to the company rail yard in L.A. The move is expected to reduce air emissions in the region.
Feedback can be emailed to ceqacomments@portla.org, with the subject line labeled “SCIG Project.” For questions, contact Lisa Ochsner at the port’s Environmental Management Division at (310) 732-3412.
For more on the project’s environmental documents, visit https://www.portoflosangeles.org/environment/environmental-documents.
The port has moved the deadline to Aug. 25 for those interested in submitting comment on the Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report for a planned BNSF intermodal rail yard facility.
BNSF wants to build a multi-million dollar rail yard facility four miles away from the ports of L.A. and Long Beach, which would divert cargo that would normally travel by truck over 20 miles to the company rail yard in L.A. The move is expected to reduce air emissions in the region.
Feedback can be emailed to ceqacomments@portla.org, with the subject line labeled “SCIG Project.” For questions, contact Lisa Ochsner at the port’s Environmental Management Division at (310) 732-3412.
For more on the project’s environmental documents, visit https://www.portoflosangeles.org/environment/environmental-documents.
Port of San Diego’s Maritime Dept. to Manage Anchorages
The Port of San Diego’s Maritime Department has taken over managing anchorages on San Diego Bay and the port’s Shelter Island Guest Docks at 1401 Shelter Island Drive from the Harbor Police Department.
This move, which took place last month, means new changes to reserving a slip in Guest Docks, including a daily dockage fee increase from $1 per lineal foot per day to $1.19 per lineal foot per day and no more online reservations. Boaters will have to call (619) 400-4744 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily to reserve a slip. They will have to email valid identification and vessel registration to moorings@portofsandiego.org. They can check to see available slips at http://reservations.portofsandiego.org/boating/Index.asp.
The port also offers two 72-hour anchorages and a “Cruiser Anchorage (A9),” which come with no fee to anchor but require a permit. Boaters can get permits online for the La Playa Cove (A1) and Glorietta Bay (A5) anchorages.
For the Cruiser Anchorage, a vessel inspection by Harbor Police is needed for a permit and boaters must go to the Harbor Police substation at 1401 Shelter Island Drive to obtain it. This is available to only non-San Diego County residents.
More information is available at https://www.portofsandiego.org/coming-and-going/boating-san-diego-bay/shelter-island-guest-docks.
This move, which took place last month, means new changes to reserving a slip in Guest Docks, including a daily dockage fee increase from $1 per lineal foot per day to $1.19 per lineal foot per day and no more online reservations. Boaters will have to call (619) 400-4744 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily to reserve a slip. They will have to email valid identification and vessel registration to moorings@portofsandiego.org. They can check to see available slips at http://reservations.portofsandiego.org/boating/Index.asp.
The port also offers two 72-hour anchorages and a “Cruiser Anchorage (A9),” which come with no fee to anchor but require a permit. Boaters can get permits online for the La Playa Cove (A1) and Glorietta Bay (A5) anchorages.
For the Cruiser Anchorage, a vessel inspection by Harbor Police is needed for a permit and boaters must go to the Harbor Police substation at 1401 Shelter Island Drive to obtain it. This is available to only non-San Diego County residents.
More information is available at https://www.portofsandiego.org/coming-and-going/boating-san-diego-bay/shelter-island-guest-docks.
Friday, July 30, 2021
Port of Bellingham to Halt Point Roberts Emergency Ferry Service
As the Canadian Government announces plans to reopen the US/Canada border to non-essential travel, Port of Bellingham, Wash.
officials have decided that Aug. 12 will be the last day the port will offer its emergency ferry service to Point Roberts.
The port has been offering the service for free for nearly a year to help Point Roberts residents get access to vital goods and services while the border has been closed to limit the spread of COVID-19. While Point Roberts is part of Whatcom County, the area is geographically set apart from the U.S. by two border land crossings.
“We anticipate the border opening will relieve stress on this community but are here to help if something changes,” said Port Commission President Ken Bell.
The Aug. 5 and Aug. 9 emergency sailings to Point Roberts will be limited to 30 people, so reservations should be made in advance at www.portofbellingham.com/pointrobertsferry.
Face masks must be worn on the ferry. More information is available at www.portofbellingham.com/pointrobertsferry.
officials have decided that Aug. 12 will be the last day the port will offer its emergency ferry service to Point Roberts.
The port has been offering the service for free for nearly a year to help Point Roberts residents get access to vital goods and services while the border has been closed to limit the spread of COVID-19. While Point Roberts is part of Whatcom County, the area is geographically set apart from the U.S. by two border land crossings.
“We anticipate the border opening will relieve stress on this community but are here to help if something changes,” said Port Commission President Ken Bell.
The Aug. 5 and Aug. 9 emergency sailings to Point Roberts will be limited to 30 people, so reservations should be made in advance at www.portofbellingham.com/pointrobertsferry.
Face masks must be worn on the ferry. More information is available at www.portofbellingham.com/pointrobertsferry.
PMA to Build Training Center at Seattle’s Terminal 46
The Pacific Maritime Association will soon be able to build a new training facility for longshore workers and other maritime jobs holders at Terminal 46 in Seattle, thanks to a final lease approval by the managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance earlier this month.
The PMA - which currently runs a training center at Terminal 5.
“This state-of-the art training facility on Seattle’s central waterfront is critical to making our deep-water seaports the most efficient on the West Coast,” Port of Seattle Commissioner and NWSA Managing Member Stephanie Bowman said in a statement.
“The partnership between the ports, labor and management to invest in training will ultimately benefit Washington’s exporters, helping them deliver their world-class products more quickly to markets around the world,” she added.
PMA is proud to work with the Northwest Seaport Alliance to develop a “state-of-the-art training facility to promote a skilled, safe and efficient ILWU workforce at the Port of Seattle,” added PMA Northwest Area Director Nairobi Russ.
“This facility and its dedicated crane will help ensure that we maintain a skilled workforce to keep our port terminals thriving and accommodate the historic cargo surge that is impacting our entire supply chain,” Russ added.
The PMA - which currently runs a training center at Terminal 5.
“This state-of-the art training facility on Seattle’s central waterfront is critical to making our deep-water seaports the most efficient on the West Coast,” Port of Seattle Commissioner and NWSA Managing Member Stephanie Bowman said in a statement.
“The partnership between the ports, labor and management to invest in training will ultimately benefit Washington’s exporters, helping them deliver their world-class products more quickly to markets around the world,” she added.
PMA is proud to work with the Northwest Seaport Alliance to develop a “state-of-the-art training facility to promote a skilled, safe and efficient ILWU workforce at the Port of Seattle,” added PMA Northwest Area Director Nairobi Russ.
“This facility and its dedicated crane will help ensure that we maintain a skilled workforce to keep our port terminals thriving and accommodate the historic cargo surge that is impacting our entire supply chain,” Russ added.
New Long Beach Harbor Board President Elected
North Long Beach community leader Steven Neal is the new president of the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners.
He was elected Monday to the one-year term leading the five-member board that oversees the Port of Long Beach.
“I’d like to thank my fellow Commissioners for the faith they have placed in me,” Neal said. “Over the last year, the Port of Long Beach has surmounted an unprecedented pandemic to keep moving the products desperately needed by homebound Americans. I look forward to working with my colleagues, staff, and Executive Director Mario Cordero to ensure this port remains a top commercial gateway for decades to come.”
Also, Sharon L. Weissman will serve as the board’s vice president and Bobby Olvera Jr. as secretary.
Before being appointed by Mayor Robert Garcia to the Harbor Commission in 2019, Neal served on the Long Beach City Council representing the Ninth District in North Long Beach from 2010 to 2014. He was a board member for Long Beach Transit and the Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network.
He is the senior pastor for LIFE Gospel Ministries, a co-founder of the Economic Policy Impact Center and executive director of the Long Beach Collective Association.
He was elected Monday to the one-year term leading the five-member board that oversees the Port of Long Beach.
“I’d like to thank my fellow Commissioners for the faith they have placed in me,” Neal said. “Over the last year, the Port of Long Beach has surmounted an unprecedented pandemic to keep moving the products desperately needed by homebound Americans. I look forward to working with my colleagues, staff, and Executive Director Mario Cordero to ensure this port remains a top commercial gateway for decades to come.”
Also, Sharon L. Weissman will serve as the board’s vice president and Bobby Olvera Jr. as secretary.
Before being appointed by Mayor Robert Garcia to the Harbor Commission in 2019, Neal served on the Long Beach City Council representing the Ninth District in North Long Beach from 2010 to 2014. He was a board member for Long Beach Transit and the Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network.
He is the senior pastor for LIFE Gospel Ministries, a co-founder of the Economic Policy Impact Center and executive director of the Long Beach Collective Association.
Port of Oakland Board President Gets Second Term
Port of Oakland Board President Andreas Cluver is remaining the head of the seven-member board.
In a special meeting earlier this month, port commissioners unanimously chose Cluver for a second consecutive one-year term. Cluver, the Secretary-Treasurer of the Building & Construction Trades Council of Alameda County, joined the board in February 2016. Commissioners are nominated by the mayor of Oakland and appointed by the Oakland City Council.
Under his leadership, Cluver guided the port as it started to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, from the reopening of domestic air service at Oakland International Airport to record cargo movement at the seaport.
“I’m gratified to have the support of my colleagues for another year as president,” Cluver said. “We’ve got lots of unfinished business and I’m fortunate to be working with the Board and a talented Port of Oakland staff.”
Meanwhile, Port Commissioner Barbara Leslie will remain first vice president and Commissioner Yui Hay Lee as second vice president. They will also serve second one-year terms in those roles.
In a special meeting earlier this month, port commissioners unanimously chose Cluver for a second consecutive one-year term. Cluver, the Secretary-Treasurer of the Building & Construction Trades Council of Alameda County, joined the board in February 2016. Commissioners are nominated by the mayor of Oakland and appointed by the Oakland City Council.
Under his leadership, Cluver guided the port as it started to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, from the reopening of domestic air service at Oakland International Airport to record cargo movement at the seaport.
“I’m gratified to have the support of my colleagues for another year as president,” Cluver said. “We’ve got lots of unfinished business and I’m fortunate to be working with the Board and a talented Port of Oakland staff.”
Meanwhile, Port Commissioner Barbara Leslie will remain first vice president and Commissioner Yui Hay Lee as second vice president. They will also serve second one-year terms in those roles.
Tuesday, July 27, 2021
Port of Seattle Develops Ocean Acidification Action Plan
The Port of Seattle is saying that it has become the first port ever to develop an ocean acidification action plan as part of its commitment to the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification (OA Alliance).
“Last year, the Port of Seattle was the first port in the world to join the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification (OA Alliance), recognizing the many ways in which ocean acidification impacts the maritime sector and acknowledging the important role ports can play in leading environmental action,” port Commissioner Stephanie Bowman said. “We encourage other ports to join in on these efforts.”
The port has been working on decarbonization and curbing greenhouse gas emissions, a big part of fighting ocean acidification. The port is also part of the Smith Cove Blue Carbon Pilot Project, an effort to study its local ecosystem to help bolster its resiliency against ocean acidification over three years.
Climate change and ocean acidification are global problems that demand local actions, said port Commissioner Peter Steinbrueck, who co-chairs the port's environment committee.
“The Port of Seattle cannot stop global environmental challenges alone, but the Port is taking many innovative steps to help stem the tide,” Steinbrueck said. “Efforts we’re making here at Smith Cove can serve as a model for marine habitat restoration across Puget Sound.”
“Last year, the Port of Seattle was the first port in the world to join the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification (OA Alliance), recognizing the many ways in which ocean acidification impacts the maritime sector and acknowledging the important role ports can play in leading environmental action,” port Commissioner Stephanie Bowman said. “We encourage other ports to join in on these efforts.”
The port has been working on decarbonization and curbing greenhouse gas emissions, a big part of fighting ocean acidification. The port is also part of the Smith Cove Blue Carbon Pilot Project, an effort to study its local ecosystem to help bolster its resiliency against ocean acidification over three years.
Climate change and ocean acidification are global problems that demand local actions, said port Commissioner Peter Steinbrueck, who co-chairs the port's environment committee.
“The Port of Seattle cannot stop global environmental challenges alone, but the Port is taking many innovative steps to help stem the tide,” Steinbrueck said. “Efforts we’re making here at Smith Cove can serve as a model for marine habitat restoration across Puget Sound.”
Port of Los Angeles Launches Cargo Movement Prediction Tool
The Port of Los Angeles’ Port Optimizer Control Tower data tool now has a new feature in its toolbox.
Earlier this month, the port unveiled “Horizon,” a data tool developed with partner Wabtec that can help supply chain stakeholders predict the movement of cargo volumes up to six months in advance.
“We’re proud to break ground with this new forecasting tool, which is the first of its kind,” said port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The Horizon predictive technology is yet another service that we can offer port stakeholders to better plan and allocate resources, especially amid this historic cargo surge.”
Horizon will be able to predict container moves using historical and trending volume data gathered by the Port Optimizer.
“Data is a critical resource in moving goods across the supply chain and into the hands of consumers,” said Nalin Jain, Wabtec’s president of digital electronics. “This is one more step in our journey to connect railroads, chassis providers, truckers, warehouse operators, and others across the supply chain with the insights they need to seamlessly move cargo in and out of ports.”
Earlier this month, the port unveiled “Horizon,” a data tool developed with partner Wabtec that can help supply chain stakeholders predict the movement of cargo volumes up to six months in advance.
“We’re proud to break ground with this new forecasting tool, which is the first of its kind,” said port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The Horizon predictive technology is yet another service that we can offer port stakeholders to better plan and allocate resources, especially amid this historic cargo surge.”
Horizon will be able to predict container moves using historical and trending volume data gathered by the Port Optimizer.
“Data is a critical resource in moving goods across the supply chain and into the hands of consumers,” said Nalin Jain, Wabtec’s president of digital electronics. “This is one more step in our journey to connect railroads, chassis providers, truckers, warehouse operators, and others across the supply chain with the insights they need to seamlessly move cargo in and out of ports.”
USCG Cutter Healy Departs Seattle for Arctic
Earlier this month, crew members of the 420-foot-long medium polar icebreaker U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy left its Seattle homeport and embarked on its months-long deployment to the Arctic.
The crew, which set out July 10, will be part of several science and research missions, further U.S. interests along the U.S.-Russia maritime border, conduct operations that “build preparedness, prevention and response capabilities,” and work and train with foreign Navy and patrol partners as part of its annual work in the region.
Members will also sail around North America through the Northwest Passage and the Panama Canal and support the Coast Guard’s Arctic Strategy.
“Healy’s deployment provides opportunities to deepen the Coast Guard’s cooperation and commitment with our Arctic allies and partners and to support scientific exploration to increase understanding of the changing Arctic environment and associated impacts,” Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander Vice Adm. Michael McAllister said.
The crew, which set out July 10, will be part of several science and research missions, further U.S. interests along the U.S.-Russia maritime border, conduct operations that “build preparedness, prevention and response capabilities,” and work and train with foreign Navy and patrol partners as part of its annual work in the region.
Members will also sail around North America through the Northwest Passage and the Panama Canal and support the Coast Guard’s Arctic Strategy.
“Healy’s deployment provides opportunities to deepen the Coast Guard’s cooperation and commitment with our Arctic allies and partners and to support scientific exploration to increase understanding of the changing Arctic environment and associated impacts,” Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander Vice Adm. Michael McAllister said.
Feedback on Renewal Exams Via Email Positive, NMC Says
Mariners who have been able to complete renewal examinations by email responded positively to the process, according to the National Maritime Center.
In May, the NMC started offering an email option for renewal examinations, which enables mariners to ask for, finish and turn in renewal exams for grading. More than 1,200 mariners finished over 3,000 examination modules via email and “the feedback regarding the improved communications and significant reduction in processing time is overwhelmingly positive.”
Mariners should refrain from mailing hardcopy examinations, which could mean processing delays, the NMC said.
For those who received Approval to Test (ATT) letters for renewal examinations on or after May 1 should head to the NMC Examinations Page website for directions on how to get an electronic examination.
When mariners get an ATT letter, they need to ask for their exam by email at NMCRenewalExams@uscg.mil or by calling the NMC Customer Contact Center. They need to provide a Pay.gov payment receipt with the request if the examination fee was not paid.
NMC will then email the mariner an Adobe PDF copy of the exam module(s).
For more information, contact the NMC Customer Service Center by email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or call 1-888-IASKNMC (888-427-5662).
In May, the NMC started offering an email option for renewal examinations, which enables mariners to ask for, finish and turn in renewal exams for grading. More than 1,200 mariners finished over 3,000 examination modules via email and “the feedback regarding the improved communications and significant reduction in processing time is overwhelmingly positive.”
Mariners should refrain from mailing hardcopy examinations, which could mean processing delays, the NMC said.
For those who received Approval to Test (ATT) letters for renewal examinations on or after May 1 should head to the NMC Examinations Page website for directions on how to get an electronic examination.
When mariners get an ATT letter, they need to ask for their exam by email at NMCRenewalExams@uscg.mil or by calling the NMC Customer Contact Center. They need to provide a Pay.gov payment receipt with the request if the examination fee was not paid.
NMC will then email the mariner an Adobe PDF copy of the exam module(s).
For more information, contact the NMC Customer Service Center by email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or call 1-888-IASKNMC (888-427-5662).
Friday, July 23, 2021
U.S. West Coast Ports See Slight Dip in May Cargo: PMSA Report
U.S. West Coast ports moved 37.7% of imports in May, a slight drop from 38.1% in May 2020 and 38.6% from May 2019, according to new numbers released by the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association.
The five largest West Coast ports - those in Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma - moved most of those imports - about 36.2% - in May, a slight decrease from 36.6% in May 2020 and 37.2% in May 2019.
All USWC seaports processed 29% of U.S. exports in May, dipping from 29.6% in May 2020 and 34.6% in May 2019.
The five major U.S. West Coast ports moved 59.4% of all containerized import tonnage originating from Asia in May, which was up from May 2020 when the Big Five handled 55% of imports and from May 2019 when they handled 57.4% of imports.
Collectively, U.S. West Coast ports moved 60.2% of imports and 53.7% of exports headed to Asia.
“While the Big Five clearly dominate USWC containerized trade with the Far East, their shares are slipping ever so slightly,” according to PMSA.
The five major USWC seaports saw 98.6% of imports and 97.6% of exports in May, down from 98.8% of import shares and 99% of export shares in May 2019.
The five largest West Coast ports - those in Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma - moved most of those imports - about 36.2% - in May, a slight decrease from 36.6% in May 2020 and 37.2% in May 2019.
All USWC seaports processed 29% of U.S. exports in May, dipping from 29.6% in May 2020 and 34.6% in May 2019.
The five major U.S. West Coast ports moved 59.4% of all containerized import tonnage originating from Asia in May, which was up from May 2020 when the Big Five handled 55% of imports and from May 2019 when they handled 57.4% of imports.
Collectively, U.S. West Coast ports moved 60.2% of imports and 53.7% of exports headed to Asia.
“While the Big Five clearly dominate USWC containerized trade with the Far East, their shares are slipping ever so slightly,” according to PMSA.
The five major USWC seaports saw 98.6% of imports and 97.6% of exports in May, down from 98.8% of import shares and 99% of export shares in May 2019.
Potential Queen Mary Transfer to Port of LB Concerns Supply Chain Stakeholders
Supply chain stakeholders are urging city and harbor leaders not to saddle the Port of Long Beach with the responsibility of the Queen Mary, an historic vessel in need of millions of dollars in repairs.
In a July 20 letter to Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna, a number of stakeholders including the California Fresh Fruit Association, the California Retailers Association and Harbor Trucking Association expressed their concerns about the possibility of such a move.
“Transferring the ill-fated vessel and the equally unsafe submarine will be a huge drain of port resources – threatening the port’s ability to invest in infrastructure needed to meet clean air goals and maintain port competitiveness,” according to the letter.
The letter comes as members of the Long Beach City Council are considering its next steps for the beleaguered ship, which the city has owned since 1967 and leased to operators whose responsibility it was to maintain and repair the Queen Mary. The city retained full control of the vessel after the last operator filed for bankruptcy and walked away from the lease.
At a study session Tuesday, the Council was given three possible options: scraping the Queen Mary for $105 million to $190 million, preserving it for the next 25 years for $150 million to $175 million, or moving it to a dry dock in an effort to preserve it for the next 100 years for an estimated $200 million to $500 million.
Some city leaders are leaning toward preserving the ship. In the letter to Colonna, stakeholders said the city - not the port - should bear the cost of “this albatross.”
“If the city wants the Queen Mary to be resurrected,” the letter said, “then the city should fund all the costs associated.”
In a July 20 letter to Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna, a number of stakeholders including the California Fresh Fruit Association, the California Retailers Association and Harbor Trucking Association expressed their concerns about the possibility of such a move.
“Transferring the ill-fated vessel and the equally unsafe submarine will be a huge drain of port resources – threatening the port’s ability to invest in infrastructure needed to meet clean air goals and maintain port competitiveness,” according to the letter.
The letter comes as members of the Long Beach City Council are considering its next steps for the beleaguered ship, which the city has owned since 1967 and leased to operators whose responsibility it was to maintain and repair the Queen Mary. The city retained full control of the vessel after the last operator filed for bankruptcy and walked away from the lease.
At a study session Tuesday, the Council was given three possible options: scraping the Queen Mary for $105 million to $190 million, preserving it for the next 25 years for $150 million to $175 million, or moving it to a dry dock in an effort to preserve it for the next 100 years for an estimated $200 million to $500 million.
Some city leaders are leaning toward preserving the ship. In the letter to Colonna, stakeholders said the city - not the port - should bear the cost of “this albatross.”
“If the city wants the Queen Mary to be resurrected,” the letter said, “then the city should fund all the costs associated.”
National Maritime Center to Resume Counter Service
Starting this week, counter service appointments are available at several Regional Examination Centers operated by the National Maritime Center.
There will still be limited examination services. Mariners must make an appointment for counter and exam services and those who are late won’t be allowed and will have to reschedule. Mariners must be screened for COVID-19 and will be asked to reschedule if they show symptoms. Face masks are required unless mariners can provide health documentation. All fees must be paid upfront before the appointment. For exam appointments, mariners should have their pay.gov receipt, No. 2 pencils, photo identification, a non-programmable calculator and plotting equipment.
Mariners who want to schedule counter service or examination appointments should reach out to the following West Coast REC or MU:
There will still be limited examination services. Mariners must make an appointment for counter and exam services and those who are late won’t be allowed and will have to reschedule. Mariners must be screened for COVID-19 and will be asked to reschedule if they show symptoms. Face masks are required unless mariners can provide health documentation. All fees must be paid upfront before the appointment. For exam appointments, mariners should have their pay.gov receipt, No. 2 pencils, photo identification, a non-programmable calculator and plotting equipment.
Mariners who want to schedule counter service or examination appointments should reach out to the following West Coast REC or MU:
- REC Anchorage – recanc@uscg.mil
- REC Honolulu –rechonolulu@uscg.mil
- REC Juneau –recjun@uscg.mil
- REC Long Beach –reclb@uscg.mil
- REC Oakland –recoakland@uscg.mil
- REC Portland –recportland@uscg.mil
- REC Seattle –recseattle@uscg.mil
- MU Ketchikan – (907) 225-4496, Ext. 3
